Johnson & Johnson announced this week that they will be removing harmful chemicals from their personal care products, thanks to the Environmental Working Group.
“Our advocacy for safe cosmetics paid off big time today.
Together with our partners in the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, we convinced Johnson & Johnson—one of the largest cosmetics companies in the world— to agree to phase out chemicals linked to cancer and other health problems from its baby AND adult products in 57 countries around the world.
J&J’s announcement today includes all of the company’s brands and products, including Aveeno, Neutrogena, Clean & Clear and, of course, the iconic Johnson’s Baby Shampoo. The commitment builds on the company’s November 2011 pledge to remove two chemicals linked to cancer from baby products sold worldwide.”
Most parents don’t even realize the shampoo they use to tenderly wash their baby’s hair contains at least two chemicals that cause cancer- formaldehyde and 1,4 dioxane. Neither toxin is listed on the back of the shampoos or lotions because neither is technically an ingredient.
Why not?
Formaldehyde is released over time by the preservatives that do appear on labels and 1,4 dioxane is created during a process used to make the other ingredients gentler on the skin. Potential cancer for softer skin? Not a great trade-off, in my opinion.
This is GREAT news and a huge step forward in the battle against toxic chemicals in our environment. Except that the new formulas will not be available until 2015.
Until then opt for one of the many baby care products already on the market made by companies committed to the health of its consumers. Anything by Earth Mama, Angel Baby or Weleda gets my vote.
Here are some other tips for choosing the right products:
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